Propane assistance, tips

The Itasca County Sheriff’s Office would like to share the following information obtained from the Office of Governor Dayton in regards to Emergency Executive Order 14-02 for Propane.

Low-Income Assistance

Governor Dayton has increased LIHEAP Crisis payments from $500 to $1,000 for applicants heating their homes with propane and heating oil. Consumers who need financial assistance to pay heating bills may find help through the Low Income Heating Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) at 1.800.657.3710.

Department of Commerce tips:

• Plan ahead – don’t wait until you are almost out to order propane.

• To save money and energy, conserve as much as possible by turning down the heat during the day if you are not at home as well as at night.

• Air seal windows and close fireplace dampers to stop the heat from escaping your home.

• To save money and energy, conserve as much as possible by turning down the heat during the day if you are not at home as well as at night.

Use Alternative Heat Sources Safely

The State Fire Marshal (SFM) reminds residents to use caution when using alternative heating sources such as space heaters.

• Keep anything flammable -- including pets and people -- at least three feet away from heating equipment.

• Make sure portable space heaters have an automatic shut-off.

• Turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.

• Space heaters need constant watching. Never leave a space heater on when you go to sleep. Never place a space heater close to any sleeping person.

• Make sure all cords on electric heaters are in good shape and checked periodically for any frays or breaks in the insulation surrounding the wires.

• Check the cord and outlet occasionally for overheating; if it feels hot, discontinue use.

• Place the heater on a level, hard and nonflammable surface, not on rugs or carpets or near bedding or drapes.

• Use a heater that has been tested to the latest safety standards and certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. These heaters will have the most up to date safety features; older space heaters may not meet the newer safety standards.

Sheriff Vic Williams asks that you please heed the information provided and make safe and appropriate heating decisions during this cold weather season. Should you be in need of assistance with heating options, please call 2-1-1 or 218.326.8565.